The Economics of Black Friday: Where to Find the Best Deals of 2023

Written by Valeri Guevarra (W’26); Edited by Nina Rawal (W’27)

The holiday season is upon us, and with that comes, traditionally, the biggest shopping day of the year: Black Friday. 

With the rise of big deal events throughout the year, like Prime Days in July and October, Target Circle Week, and Walmart Deals for Days, it may seem like the allure of Black Friday has dissipated over the years. Some small studies have revealed many consumers are opting out of Black Friday Shopping. 

However, a recent extensive survey conducted by BCG says that 74% of consumers plan to shop during November sales events, including Black Friday and Cyber Monday. On average, U.S consumers expect to spend $460, a 3% increase from 2022. 

Focusing on the Penn community, one Wharton freshman in particular said she plans to shop on Black Friday in some form (online and/or in-store) and will buy “mainly clothes, makeup, skincare, and possibly some shoes and Christmas presents.”

Now, where can you find the best deals? 

Of course, it depends on what you’re looking for, so below is a compiled list of some of the best online deals Penn (or any college) students may want to take advantage of. 

Aerie

Available now

• $20 Sports Bras 

• 25% off all jeans 

• 30% off almost everything 

• 40% off all leggings and tops

Amazon 

Available now 

• 20% off Intex twin size air mattress 

• 40-70% off various Amazon Echo dot devices 

• 40% off Zober velvet coat hangers

Apple Store

Only available from Nov. 24-27

• Buy an eligible product (including iPhones, iPads, and Airpods) and get an Apple Gift Card up to $200 to use on a later purchase

Nordstrom 

Available now

• 30% off UGG Cozy Slipper in multiple colors and sizes 

• 40% Sam Edelman Laurs Platform Lug Sole Loafer in multiple sizes and colors

• 50% Birkenstock Gizeh Big Buckle Slide Sandal in Gray in multiple sizes

Rebok

Available now

• Up to 65% off sneakers

Target

Available now

• Up to 40% Kitchen and Dining including pans, glass containers, and air-fryers 

• 20-60% select categories of items (Target Circle New Deals of the Day)

Sephora 

Available only on 11/20

• 30% off fresh products

Available only on 11/21

• 30% off Lancome Paris

Available only on 11/22

• 30% off Tarte

• 30% off Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Products

Available only on 11/23

• 30% off Sunday Riley

• 30% off Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Products

Available only on 11/24

• 30% off Fenty Beauty

• 30% off Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Products

Available only on 11/25

• 30% off Kiehl’s

• 30% off Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Products

Urban Outfitters 

Available now 

Extra 40% off Sale including clothing, home items, and iPhone cases